Introduction: Human Microbiome (02:32)

FREE PREVIEW

The human body contains about 25,000 genes. Experts are interested in the role of genes in human circumstances. There has been a paradigm shift regarding what is going on inside the body.

Human Microbiome (02:02)

The microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms that live in the body; it contains 9 million genes. A newborn’s microbiome is initially colonized by its mother’s bacteria, and it can vary based on a variety of factors.

Microbiome Imbalance (04:26)

People living remotely in the Amazon have nearly twice the biodiversity in their guts as healthy Americans. Modern advances may be causing people to lose microbiota and contributing to disease. Fecal transplants are used to treat certain diseases.

Obesity (02:06)

Studies show that obesity can be transmitted from one mouse to another, via fecal transplant. Research suggests microbiota affect energy harvest. There may be a connection between the microbiome and other conditions.

Colon Cancer (02:49)

Genomic analysis identifies an association between fusobacterium and colorectal carcinoma. Between 10 and 30 percent of colorectal cancer patients seem to harbor a significant amount of this bacteria; fusobacterium present in tumors negatively impacts patient prognosis.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (03:11)

Most people who suffer from myalgic encephalomyelitis report having a flu-like illness from which they never recover. Research suggests the cause may be reduced diversity and altered composition of gut bacteria. Can this condition be treated with probiotics and diet?

Parkinson's and Autism (04:08)

Most neurons outside of the brain reside in the gut. Research suggests bacteria in the gut play a role in the neurodegenerative diseases; the balance between good and bad bacteria may be integral to prevention.

Phage Therapy and Microbial Dark Matter (04:21)

Bacteriophages are ubiquitous viruses that are found anywhere bacteria exist; they outnumber every other organism on Earth. Humans obtain phages when they are young, and they adapt to the host’s specific mucus. Experts question the potential for using them to treat various conditions.

Credits: Edge of Wonder: Human Microbiome (00:30)

Credits: Edge of Wonder: Human Microbiome